(Adnkronos) – Ways of bolstering bilateral economic and trade collaboration were at the centre of talks in Baghdad on Wednesday between Italy’s ambassador Niccolo Fontana and Iraq’s new trade minister Mustafa Nizar Al-Ani, the embassy wrote on X.
“Amb @niccoloffontana met with trade minister Al-Ani, to discuss ways to strengthen Italy-Iraq economic&trade cooperation,” read the post.
“Focus was placed on expanding participation in trade fairs and promoting reciprocal exhibitions to create new opportunities for businesses in both countries,” the post continued.
Iraq’s youngest-ever premier, Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, 40 was sworn in with a partial cabinet on 14 May after lawmakers failed to reach a consensus on key postings, including interior and defence.
Iraq’s president Nizar Amedi named Zaidi prime minister-designate in late April and tasked him with forming a government. Zaidi’s selection ended a months-long deadlock in which United States President Donald Trump intervened, threatening to cut off all aid to Iraq if the coalition’s initial candidate, two-time premier Nouri al-Malik – who is close to Iran – was appointed.
Disarming Iran-backed militias, tackling entrenched corruption, and balancing ties between Washington and Tehran are among major challenges facing Iraq’s new government.
